Council’s vision to bring life back to Mount Archer

Published on 14 July 2015

A vision to reveal Mount Archer’s true potential has become part of Council’s future long-term plans in the recently created Mount Archer Activation Master Plan.

The Master Plan was developed following extensive community consultation with State Government agencies, community groups and nearby residents to determine a guideline for future investment on the mountain.

Still in its preliminary stages, it looks at ways to improve infrastructure and environmental and recreational activities to maximise community use over coming generations.

Rockhampton Region Mayor Margaret Strelow said Mount Archer is one of Rockhampton’s greatest and underutilised assets.

“Our plans to revitalise Mount Archer must be as cost effective as possible and will depend on the feasibility of the proposed projects and their return on investment for the community,” Mayor Strelow said.

In today’s ordinary Council meeting, the draft Master Plan received approval to be put forward to the wider community for feedback. 

“We have some very enthusiastic community groups on board, and after we receive further feedback from the community we will then review the most economically viable options,” she said.

“It is then envisaged that Council will allocate funding towards the revitalisation each year over a long period, in addition to working with both levels of government to obtain financial assistance.”

Suggestions for future projects in the Master Plan include upgrading Pilbeam Drive and creating 30 kilometres of mountain bike trails and walkways.

Council is also seeking to integrate recognised, long-term, implementation partners into the Master Plan with labour sourced from the Green Army and the Capricornia Correctional Centre.  

Community consultation will commence next Wednesday 22 July through to Friday 14 August.